2016 Call

The Communication Theory Interest Group invites the submission of competitive papers, panels, roundtable discussions/debates, and innovative programming for the 2016 CSCA convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our interest group focuses on the development, comparison, extension, criticism, teaching, learning, and application of theory in communication research. We welcome a range of topics and we especially encourage members to address issues related to the convention theme of Foundation. In terms of panels, preference will be given to those with panelists representing multiple institutions rather than a single institution. Student submissions are greatly encouraged.

We welcome a variety of formats, including competitive paper panels, paper panels, discussion panels, spotlight panels, and debate panels. We strongly encourage the submission of panels that are co-sponsored with other CSCA units. Please contact the Communication Theory Interest Group Chair for help coordinating co-sponsored panels.

Awards: The Communication Theory Interest Group presents the Em Griffin Top Paper Award each year. The author(s) of the top paper receives a certificate and a $50.00 prize. Our interest group also presents the Top Competitive Panel Award. The panelists of the on the top panel will receive a certificate and a $50.00 prize. Winners are determined by the Chair based on reviewer evaluations.

Guidelines for Submission:

(1) Papers: Only completed papers will be accepted. Papers must conform to the most current APA standards and include a title and a brief abstract. The word “STUDENT” should be marked on all papers written by student authors. Student authored papers do not include those co-authored with faculty members. Author names and any identifying information must be removed prior to submission. A Competitive Paper Submission Form must be submitted as a separate attachment along with the paper. This form is located on the CSCA website: www.csca-net.org

(2) Panels: Discussion and paper panel submissions must include the following: (a) title, (b) description (75 words or less), (c) rationale (75 words or less), and (d) a complete list of participants along with their institutional affiliations, contact information (address, e-mail, and telephone), and if they are CSCA Members. Paper panels should also include titles and brief abstracts (100 words or less) for each paper. We are encouraging creative and interactive panels that stir discussion and debate. Submitters must use the Discussion Panel Form or Paper Panel Form. These forms are located on the CSCA website: www.csca-net.org

All papers must be submitted electronically using Microsoft Word. Documents sent using any other format will be returned to the sender. An e-mail acknowledging receipt of paper and panel proposals will be sent for each submission. All media requests must be made at the time of submission. Please only request media if it is absolutely essential to your presentation, as media requests will be closely examined before approval. Laptop computers will not be made available for presentations. Your submission implies that you agree to follow appropriate presentation guidelines if your paper/panel is accepted (i.e., it is generally unacceptable to read your paper to those in attendance).

Submissions must be received by October 3, 2015.

Send submissions electronically using Microsoft Word to the following: